Finn Jeltsch, the 20-year-old center-back who plays for VfB Stuttgart, has been linked with a potential move to FC Barcelona by the press. Labeled a “modern center-back” for his anticipation and ball-playing ability, Jeltsch is still improving, but he is wanted throughout Europe for his massive potential.
Bayern Munich, Liverpool FC, and Real Madrid are said to also be interested.
Born in Neuendettelsau, Jeltsch joined the academy of nearby FC Nürnberg when he was around nine years old. He spent time
as a central and attacking midfielder before being converted to a center-back, which helps explain why he is so good on the ball. Pundits warn that he is still prone to making some defensive mistakes or losing concentration, which is natural for such a young defender.
Some experts say Jeltsch is still not ready to move to a big-time club like Barcelona, arguing he needs at least one more year to fully establish himself with Stuttgart. But there are many teams in Europe willing to give him an opportunity, and the German club is said to be willing to deal him for the right bid. Barça, in particular, could be a good landing spot, thanks to fellow German Hansi Flick’s defensive system, which relies on pace and defenders who can play the ball.
German football expert Andrés Weiss told Sport: “He would fit perfectly, also with what Flick is looking for from his defenders: that they are able to cover a lot of open field, that they can play in the center of the defense or on the wings and that would make sense. But he is very young, he would need a little more to take the next step.”
Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, is said to be a fan of Jeltsch. Barça could be in the market for a new central defender, as they lack depth in the position. Gerard Martín and Pau Cubarsí are the sure starters, but Andreas Christensen is often injured. Barça have not fully made up for the loss of Iñigo Martínez, who left to go to Saudi Arabia last year. They do have Jules Koundé and Eric Garcia, though they play more often as full-backs. Recently, Flick has used Frenkie de Jong, a midfielder, in the position.
